Hulk Hogan, who helped lead professional wrestling's rise in popularity in the 1980s and beyond, has died, Florida police and World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) said Thursday. He was 71.Hulk Hogan, born Terry Eugene Bollea on August 11, 1953, in Augusta, Georgia, was one of professional wrestling’s most iconic and transformative figures. Known for his massive frame, signature handlebar moustache, and electrifying charisma, Hogan played a central role in turning wrestling into a global entertainment phenomenon.
Raised in Tampa, Florida, Hogan initially pursued music and was a bassist in several rock bands before training as a professional wrestler under Hiro Matsuda in the mid-1970s. He made his wrestling debut in 1977 and eventually adopted the name “Hulk Hogan,” inspired by his size and resemblance to Marvel’s Incredible Hulk.
Hogan’s rise to superstardom began in the early 1980s after joining the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) under Vince McMahon Jr. The WWF was expanding nationally, and Hogan's clean-cut, all-American persona made him the face of the brand. In 1984, he defeated The Iron Sheik to win the WWF Championship, launching the era of “Hulkamania.” Fans adored his larger-than-life personality, red-and-yellow gear, and famous catchphrases like “Whatcha gonna do when Hulkamania runs wild on you?”
Hogan became the centrepiece of WrestleMania, WWF’s flagship event. He headlined the first nine editions, facing legends such as André the Giant and Randy Savage. His match with André at WrestleMania III, where he famously body-slammed the 520-pound giant, is one of wrestling’s most iconic moments. Hogan’s appeal went beyond wrestling—he starred in films like Rocky III and was a staple of 1980s pop culture.
In 1994, Hogan joined rival promotion WCW (World Championship Wrestling). He initially continued as the heroic Hulkster but shocked the world in 1996 by turning heel and forming the New World Order (nWo) alongside Scott Hall and Kevin Nash. As “Hollywood Hogan,” he reinvented himself, bringing new energy and helping WCW dominate WWF in ratings for years.
Hogan returned to WWE in the early 2000s and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2005. He continued to make special appearances and even captured the WWE Undisputed Championship again in 2002.
Despite his achievements, Hogan's life has faced controversies. A sex tape scandal and leaked racist remarks in 2015 led to his temporary removal from WWE. He later apologized and was reinstated in 2018.
Hogan’s cultural legacy is immense. He was the first wrestler to achieve mainstream fame, setting the stage for stars like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and John Cena. His trademark leg drop, theme song “Real American,” and motivational message of saying prayers and taking vitamins made him a hero to millions.
Beyond the ring, Hogan’s personal life was documented in reality shows like Hogan Knows Best. He has two children, including singer and TV personality Brooke Hogan.
For many fans, Hulk Hogan remained the face of wrestling’s golden age—a symbol of power, charisma, and the enduring magic of sports entertainment.
Source: Some or all of the content was generated using an AI language model
No comments:
Post a Comment